O Edo Sukeroku Taiko

Attended a fantastic O Bon ceremony last night at Honganji Temple. This festival featured the Bon Odori dances. What follows is a description of O Bon and the Bon Odori dances from About.com:


"The 13th through 16th of August is called obon in Japan. Obon is a Buddhist event and is one of the most important traditions for Japanese people. It is the period of praying for the repose of the souls of one's ancestors. People believe that their ancestors' spirits come back to their homes to be reunited with their family during obon.

During obon, bon odori dances (folk dances) are held all over Japan. The kind of dance varies from area to area. People wearing yukata (summer kimono) go to the neighborhood bon odori and dance around a yagura stage. Anyone can participate in bon odori. Join the circle and imitate what others are doing. Usually, taiko drums are played with the music."

The highlight of the evening was a Taiko troupe performance by O Edo Sukeroku Taiko. O Edo are led by my former taiko instructor, Seido Kobayashi (seen in the second photo). Last night was the best performance I've ever seen by the group: absolutely exhilarating. After the performance, Shizuo Harada and I went over to Kobayashi-san to say "hello." I had not seen him for almost 13 years! He was so surprised and so happy. He is heading to Seattle, now, for a one week conference on taiko drumming. However, when he returns, I am going to visit him at his studio. Can't wait!